Happiness is a subjective state of mind and everyone’s version of happiness is different just like their path of achieving it. But there are some similar good habits you can induce in your daily routine which most happiest people share in common. Here, is the hows of happiness to make your life more fulfilled and blessed.
- Identify small steps- Identifying small steps that move you forward is the biggest thing happiest people do on daily basis. They know change is the only constant and don’t fear taking the next step towards their progress even it calls for a change in their routine. The take calculated risk and start by defining their goals clearly. Once the goal is clear, they break it down into small achievable steps and then prioritise them on the basis of their impact. The steps are always realistic therefore happiest people are always motivated and easily avoid feeling overwhelmed. Action always follow after the identification of steps. Evaluation of the progress and adjustment as needed regularly motivates them to reach their goal at the earliest. Brainstorm different ideas to identify that one small step that you can complete in the next 24 hours everyday to take you closer to your purpose in life. You can also write about your purpose in a more clearer way everyday. You can start with the easiest step to build momentum if you find it difficult to get started.
- Art of saying ‘NO’- Most compassionate people in the world have one thing in common and that is they have very clear boundaries. In order to avoid over committing and people pleasing behaviour one must learn how to say ‘no’. Know your own limits and don’t be afraid to set healthy boundaries when you feel like you are being asked to do too much. Focus on yourself and your priorities and say no to things that do not align with them without any guilt or apologies. If possible you can provide an alternative solution to fulfill the request but don’t burden yourself. Be respectful and honest when declining an offer, but no need for over-explaination. It is better to say no early then to wait until the last minute. At times when it becomes difficult to say no, practice self care and be assertive to remind yourself that it is okay to prioritise your own happiness and needs. You can also practice mindful meditation or deep breathing to stay calm and centred when you are just learning to say no. Be consistent, and never say ‘yes’ when you really mean ‘no’ for your nos to be effective.
- Choose your inner circle- As a popular saying goes, we are the average of 5 people we spend the most time with. Therefore choose your inner circle wisely as it will impact your thinking, values and energy. Choose people who are like-minded and encouraging and share similar core values and goals. Avoid people who are negative and bring you down. Expand your knowledge and learning about the world by including a diverse group of people from different backgrounds having different experiences in your inner circle. Choose people who respect your boundaries and whom you can trust with your confidences. Building relationships takes time and effort. Invest in those relations where there is mutual respect, care and commitment. Listen to your intuition when it comes to choosing friends, if someone consistently makes you feel uncomfortable, it is time to re-evaluate the relationship. Always focus on quality over quantity. Your inner circle should be your support system with people who can identify you and inspire you to become your best version. It is not about the number of friends that counts, what matters is their best interests at heart for you. Lastly, always be willing to move on from friendships that no longer serves you or have become toxic.
- Focus on the present- Focusing on the present and acting on it will only get you the desired results. If you worry too much about the future or dwell on the past, you are bound to feel anxiety and unhappiness. Be present with your thoughts to feel more grounded and content. Practice mindfulness in your daily activities and pay attention to your thoughts, emotions without any judgement. Engage your senses by engaging with your surroundings to stay focused on the present moment. Take breaks throughout the day to feel refreshed. Avoid multitasking and focus on doing one task at a time giving your full attention to it. Limit distractions, set goals and intentions of the day, practice acceptance and self-compassion.
‘XOX’
-TriGr
